Tennessee has announced plans to rename Nashville International Airport in honor of the late country music legend Dolly Parton, who passed away at the age of 80 earlier this week. The decision to rename the airport comes after a social media campaign by fans urging the change to pay tribute to Parton following her death. Governor Bill Lee of Tennessee has confirmed discussions with Parton’s team regarding this move, emphasizing Parton’s significant impact on the state.
The proposed renaming of the airport will be deliberated at a meeting on September 17, as it currently goes against the Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority’s naming policy, which typically requires a two-year gap after an individual’s passing before naming any property in their honor, as reported by The New York Times. The Tennessee Department of Tourist Development is supporting the renaming initiative, with Commissioner Mark Ezell praising Parton as a key figure in promoting Tennessee’s tourism through her music and charisma.
Dolly Parton, born on January 19, 1946, in Pittman Center, Tennessee, and raised in Locust Ridge, began her musical journey at a young age by performing at the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville. Over the years, she achieved immense success with hits like “Coat of Many Colors,” “Jolene,” and “I Will Always Love You,” solidifying her status as one of the best-selling female artists globally, with over 100 million records sold and 11 Grammy Awards, including a Lifetime Achievement Award.
